Shirley recognized by DRMAC in 2015 for “Innovation in Volunteer Transportation”
Some people can accomplish a lot in a few years. In 2012, Shirley Sadowski joined SRC part time, handling intake for volunteer drivers. Soon she became the Volunteer Driver Program Supervisor and next started working at our Littleton location in the SouthWest Mall. She grew SRC’s presence there, while training a new staff person to assist with the volunteer drivers. Shirley was fundamental in creating the current location near Kipling and Belleview.
It was clear that Shirley was doing great things in Littleton for SRC. So, it was not long before she was promoted to full time as the SW Site Supervisor, where she’s helped so many people over the past two and a half years.
“Through her diligence and attention, as well as the rapport she had with anyone entering the site, she created nothing short of a miracle,” says Hank Braaksma, Director of Transportation, and Shirley’s supervisor. “She is always giving, always helping and never backing away.”
Retirement, but tireless commitment to the mission
Shirley recently announced her retirement from SRC. On October 28, clients, volunteers and staff, gathered together to celebrate Shirley’s time with SRC. Smiles, laughs, and tears spread across the room as many shared their fond memories. Hank shared how much Shirley has grown the transportation program in the southern part of Jefferson county, along with all that she has done for SRC. Her former supervisor and current volunteer, John Walsh, shared the experience of opening the location. When it came to picking someone to manage it, he knew Shirley was the correct person. At the time he said, “If you don’t pick Shirley, the south (part of Jefferson county) will never be transformed.”
Shirley has provided a community center for older adults in the area and guided many older adults to the services SRC has to offer. People came to Shirley in need and she responded with compassion and the attitude that something must be done. Shirley always found a way to do most anything for someone in need.
Shirley shared with the gathering her plans to continue working with seniors, enabling them to age in place with dignity and hope. She looks forward to working with local churches to provide information about no-cost services for seniors.
While this is a big loss for SRC and for all the people she reaches, we also want to congratulate Shirley and express our tremendous gratitude for all she’s done. The expertise and endless compassion she brought to SRC was very much valued by every client or volunteer who came through her door.
She will be missed by the many co-workers, volunteers and community she has supported.